Interdependencies between people and information systems in organizations

Abstract

This article argues that while people and information systems (ISs) represent the two single largest areas of investment for many organizations and are increasingly interconnected resources, there has been very little research on the nature of their interdependencies and how these interdependencies affect their functioning and complementarity. It discusses how a better understanding of the dynamics of interdependencies between people and ISs can help researchers study organizations and help organizations improve the interoperation of their human and technological assets, and thus returns on investments in them. The article begins by reviewing the concept of capital and its application to people - human capital - and information systems: ISs capital. Next, it surveys past literature on interdependencies and recent literature relating to interdependencies between people and information systems. Based on the analysis, the article proposes an agenda for future research aiming to conceptualize interdependencies between people and ISs in a richer fashion